Steven Gerrard may have been away from Liverpool for almost two years now, but the fact that a simple message on social media can spark mass speculation amongst fans of the Anfield club shows how big his reputation on Merseyside remains.

That's what happened on Saturday afternoon when the former England captain posted a message on Instagram - seen further down this article - thanking his current employers LA Galaxy and their supporters.

As you might expect given the wording, Liverpool fans were quick to jump to the conclusion that Gerrard was trying to tell his old team that he was on his way back in the near future. However, after a little more analysis, there might be a simpler explanation for the timing of his message.

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First, Gerrard's original message...

At first glance, it certainly looks like a farewell message from Gerrard to the club he joined from Liverpool in January 2015. And, having only signed an 18 month deal with the American outfit, the timing is accurate if that is to be the case.

However, one thing should be taken into consideration by Liverpool fans hopeful their hero is on his way back to England.

PR move

That's because more than a few of Gerrard's fellow Galaxy teammates have posted an almost identical message over the past 24 hours.

Clearly, with the MLS regular season coming to an end this weekend, the team's marketing division have got the squad on board to engage with their fans. Gerrard, it seems, was just another of the players roped in.

Of course, that doesn't mean that the former Liverpool star will be staying on in Los Angeles beyond his current contract.

Now 36, the veteran midfielder is well aware that his playing days are nearing an end.

Watching on as Jurgen Klopp masterminds Liverpool's good form so far this season, you have to think Gerrard would be interested in joining his former team for another title challenge - this time on the coaching staff.

It would certainly provide a boost around the club as they compete at the top of the Premier League.

Nevertheless, it is important to put the star's social media activity in context, and that is what the replica posts from his LA Galaxy teammates do.

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